Just the words politics and government are enough to require a dose of Natural Vitality Calm. So take the stress-reducing supplement and read on, because participating in the process is important to your natural products business.

I know. You don't have time. And certainly, engaging with government will try your get-it-done entrepreneurial patience. But not staying informed and not getting involved, even just a little bit, is falling down on your civic duty--to your community, to your business and to the natural products industry.

Many business owners just like you traveled to Washington, D.C., this week as part of the annual Natural Products Day hosted by the Natural Products Association. The Tuesday event was an opportunity for business leaders to learn about and discuss issues that could have a major impact on the food and supplement industries, and will likely touch your business in some way.

Then they took to Capitol Hill to spread their support or share their opposition to proposals that affect the industry as well as to promote the industry, particularly the Congressional Dietary Supplement Caucus.

NPA's priorities for Natural Products Day were to:

You might not have made it to D.C. this week, but reviewing NPA's position papers, knowing about the supplement caucus, and sharing these, and your, opinions with your senators and representatives are but simple steps to actively supporting "we the people."

Part of advocating for health includes advocating for government to support the right to know and look out for our collective safety with reasonable regulation. Good government is good for all, but it takes input from everyone to get there.